An aerial view of the central area of Côn Đảo Island. HCM City authorities plan to launch two major land reclamation projects as part of a broader strategy to expand urban space, develop infrastructure, and boost tourism on the island. — VNA/VNS Photo

HCM CITY — HCM City authorities plan to develop two major land reclamation projects on Côn Đảo Island as part of a broader strategy to expand urban space, develop infrastructure, and boost tourism in one of Việt Nam’s most iconic island destinations.

The projects, located in the southeastern Suối Ớt-Cỏ Ống area and the Côn Đảo town centre, are included in the city’s newly revised Côn Đảo master development plan to 2045, approved this week by the municipal People’s Committee. 

Both projects will be developed under public-private partnership (PPP) models by 2030, with the reclaimed land to be used for urban, tourism, and public service facilities.

According to the plan, the city aims to implement 76 infrastructure, social, tourism, cultural, and mixed-use urban projects, including 21 PPP initiatives. 

Between 2026 and 2030, 73 projects will be launched, while three additional ones are scheduled after 2030.

The overall development strategy prioritises key infrastructure such as cargo and passenger ports, marinas, major transport routes, and cultural and tourism zones, while ensuring protection of the island’s forest and marine ecosystems.

Total investment capital is estimated at VNĐ66.1 trillion (US$2.5 billion), including more than VNĐ21 trillion ($850 million) from public investment. 

The city’s Department of Planning and Architecture will coordinate implementation to ensure that projects align with environmental conservation goals and preserve Côn Đảo’s unique natural landscape.

Côn Đảo, an island district of former Bà Rịa-Vũng Tàu Province (now part of HCM City) covers nearly 76 square kilometres across 16 islands about 230km from the mainland. 

Once known primarily as a former prison site during the 19th and 20th centuries, it has transformed into a popular eco-tourism and heritage destination.

The island’s economy relies heavily on tourism, transport, and hospitality services, which together accounted for revenue of more than VNĐ3 trillion ($118 million) in the first seven months, up nearly 15 per cent year-on-year, according to official data.

Under the city’s long-term vision, Côn Đảo is expected to become a model for sustainable and green island development, balancing modern infrastructure expansion with environmental protection and cultural heritage reservation. — VNS